Orientation is an exciting time and may be one of your first visits to USF's Tampa
Campus. Please review this information in preparation for your arrival.

Students should carry their passport with visa stamp and Form I-20 or DS-2019 in their
carry-on luggage on the airplane. Students will be given a WHITE arrival card (I-94)
on the airplane that needs to be completed for the port-of-entry process. Information
on the I-94 should be written clearly and match the information on the passport. The
inspection officer should put a BLUE & RED stamp on the I-94 that includes the date
of arrival, the visa status (F-1 or J-1) AND "D/S". This refers to the duration of
status/stay that is needed for the student to complete the academic program. For current
government guidelines, see the US Department of Homeland Security websites: Arriving in the United States and Arrival Procedures for Students or Exchange Visitors.

Personal Items to Bring With You

Your Pre-Arrival Homework will include a detailed list of recommendations of what you should bring with you.

Currency Exchange

It is strongly recommend that you bring at least $3,000 in U.S. traveler's checks
to cover expenses during your first four weeks in the U.S. This $3,000 does not include
tuition and fees, which must be paid before the start of classes. Foreign currency
can typically be exchanged at local banks, but foreign checks require 4-6 weeks to
clear the bank.

Arrange Travel to Tampa International Airport (TPA)

There are several smaller airports in the Tampa Bay area; however, we recommend that
you coordinate your travel itinerary to Tampa International Airport (TPA). TPA is
located approximately 19 miles from the University of South Florida – Tampa campus.

Airport Transportation

While students are responsible for their own transportation from the airport, we offer
several options and recommendations. Some student organizations provide free airport
pick up with advanced notification. We will provide additional details in your Pre-Arrival Homework.

If you will be arriving to the US before you can move into your residence hall, we
recommend staying at a nearby hotel. You can use information from Bing or Google search engines to find a nearby hotel that meets your specific needs. Major roadways
close to campus are Bruce B Downs Boulevard (Blvd.), Fletcher Avenue (Ave.) and Fowler
Avenue (Ave.). When making a reservation, be sure to ask about a discounted rate for
USF students and families.

Bank Account

Once you open a bank account, you may wire money from your bank at home directly to
your bank account in the United States. Wire transfers typically take 24-48 hours
to complete. The USF Federal Credit Union (USFFCU) offers many services and competitive
rates for USF students. USFFCU is the only bank located on the USF campus, and has
the only on-campus ATMs. You can become a member of the USF Federal Credit Union during your Orientation or Glo-Bull Beginnings program.

Health Insurance

If you have not submitted the Student Health Insurance Compliance Form, you must do
so prior to the start of the semester. Florida state law requires all international
students to have medical insurance while attending USF. Medical insurance is available
through Student Health Services. Please visit the Student Health Services website for the required forms.

Immunizations

All new students to USF are required to submit a signed copy of the official USF Medical History form and submit immunization documentation for the following: (2) Measles; Rubella; Hepatitis
B or waiver; Meningitis or waiver if not living on-campus.

Tuberculosis Screening is required for all International Students and U.S. born students
residing at an address outside the U.S. at the time of application.

What to Bring to Orientation

Please bring the following items with you to your Orientation session. You may have
already completed some of these items prior to Orientation or some may not apply to
you. Please contact us if you have any questions.

A government-issued photo ID (i.e. passport)

Your NetID, password and University ID #

Your immunization, insurance and medical history information

$10 for your USF ID Card & completed application

Any forms you need to submit to campus offices

Your official transcripts to International Admissions

A copy of your unofficial transcript (if you have them)

Your academic advising form (INTO students only)

Spending money for USF apparel

A jacket or sweater

An umbrella - just in case!

Orientation Attendance

Please remember that attendance is mandatory. Failure to attend all portions of the
Orientation will result in a hold on your course registration. Leaving Orientation
to move in to your residence hall or apartment is also not allowed. Also, a friend
or family member may not attend Orientation in your place - you must be present.

Academic Advising and Course Registration

Advising will include a college overview, introduction of your curriculum outline/plan
and course registration.

International Admissions Office

Students with questions regarding their admission to USF should contact the International Undergraduate Admissions Office.

USF Office of Orientation

Please contact the Office of Orientation with any questions regarding your Orientation
session.

Additional Immigration and Pre-Arrival Information

More information on immigration, your visa and other pre-arrival is available from
International Services. We encourage you to look over the information provided to ensure a smooth entry
into the United States and transition to USF.